You’ve got big plans for 2026. But what you do this year could be the difference between a smooth sale and a stressful one. If you’re thinking of selling next spring (the busiest season in real estate), the smartest move you can make is to start prepping now. 

As Realtor.com says:

“If you’re aiming to sell in 2026, now is the time to start preparing, especially if you want to maximize the spring market’s higher buyer activity.”

Because the reality is, from small repairs to touch-ups and decluttering, the earlier you start, the easier it’ll be when you’re ready to list. And, the better your house will look when it’s time for it to hit the market.

Why Early Preparation Matters for Beverlywood Sellers

Talk to any experienced Beverlywood real estate agent, and they’ll tell you that skipping repairs in today’s market is not an option. There are more homes for sale now than there have been in years, giving buyers more choices. To make sure your home stands out and attracts attention, early preparation is key.

That doesn’t mean a full-blown renovation is necessary. But it does mean you’ll want to tackle some essential projects before listing. Your home will sell if it’s prepped correctly, and starting early prevents the spring scramble to get repairs done.

Here’s the advantage of starting now:

• More time: Spread out projects over several months instead of rushing.

• Less stress: Avoid last-minute chaos and save yourself headaches.

• Better budget control: Schedule contractors in advance and avoid paying extra for rushed jobs.

Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet, repainting your front door, or finally replacing your roof, starting now ensures you can do it right. You have time to find skilled contractors and plan upgrades without overextending your budget.

Check out this home repair checklist before selling for a detailed guide to prep your Beverlywood home. 

Get a Beverlywood Agent’s Advice Early

To figure out what’s worth doing and what’s not, it’s essential to talk to a local Beverlywood agent early. Otherwise, you risk wasting time or money on projects that won’t improve your bottom line.

A skilled agent can guide you on:

• What buyers in your area are looking for

• Which repairs or updates are worth prioritizing

• How to sequence projects if you can’t do everything at once

• Trusted local contractors who can help get the work done

Having this information up front is a game changer. Realtor.com explains:

“Respondents overwhelmingly agree that both buyers and sellers enjoy a smoother, more successful experience when they start early. In fact, a recent survey reveals that, for sellers, bringing a real estate agent into the process sooner can pay off significantly.”

To give you a rough idea of what may come up in that conversation, here are the most common updates agents are recommending today, according to research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

Just remember, what’s worth updating really depends on the homes you’re competing with in your market. Some areas don’t have a ton of inventory, so little updates may be all you need to tackle. In other areas, there are far more homes for sale, so you may need to do a bit more to make your house stand out.

A great agent will walk you through what you need to do for your specific house and market. And that’s the expertise that’ll really pay off.

Bottom Line 

 If your plan is to sell in 2026, it's time to get serious. Taking some time to prep means you’ll hit the market confident, ready, and ahead of other sellers who waited until January to get started.

Starting early gives you a clear advantage in the Beverlywood real estate market. Homes that are thoughtfully prepped sell faster, often at a higher price, and create a smoother experience for both sellers and buyers.

💡Pro Tip: Even minor improvements, like fresh landscaping, updated lighting, or a clean and staged interior can make a huge difference in how buyers perceive your home. The key is planning now, not later.

Want to know which projects are getting the biggest return on their investment in our market? Let’s connect so you can head into next spring with a solid game plan.